While the Google Docs spreadsheet program is essentially one large table, you may find a need for a table while creating a document or presentation. Making a table in either of these programs allows you to organize your data in a series of rows and columns, separating the data from the information on the rest of the document and making it easier to understand. Both the document and spreadsheet creator have a built-in table generator, so you just need to know how large you want your table to be.

Click on the presentation or document where you wish to add a table, or click the "Create New" button and choose "Document" or "Presentation."

Click "Table" from the menu that runs across the top of your screen. Move your mouse over "Insert Table." A small matrix appears.

Position your mouse over the box in the upper left corner of the matrix. A "1 x 1" appears below the matrix. Move your mouse down and to the right until the "1 x 1" changes into the dimensions you desire for your table, up to a maximum of "20 x 20." Click the mouse button to create the table.

Tip

While you can only create a "20 x 20" table from the menu, you can then add additional rows or columns by right-clicking on the table where you want to add a row or column, then choosing "Add row" or "Add column" from the popup menu.

Warning

Google Docs is a pared-down version of other, more expensive productivity software. Some table features that you may be accustomed to, like the ability to assign a text direction to the table or the ability to split the table's cells, are not available.

About the Author

Shawn McClain has spent over 15 years as a journalist covering technology, business, culture and the arts. He has published numerous articles in both national and local publications, and online at various websites. He is currently pursuing his master's degree in journalism at Clarion University.